MUTCD R16-11: Headlight Use Signs
The R16-11 sign is covered in Section 2B.73 of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 11th Edition. Below are the provisions from that section that describe when the sign is used and how it is placed.
What it means and when it is used
- Option · Permitted (may)A LIGHTS ON WHEN USING WIPERS (R16-5) sign or a LIGHTS ON WHEN RAINING (R16-6) sign may be installed in accordance with the provisions of Section 2A.01 to inform road users of State laws regarding headlight use. Although these signs are typically installed facing traffic entering the State just inside the State border, they also may be installed at other locations within the State.
- Guidance · Recommended (should)If a particular section of roadway has been designated as a safety improvement zone within which headlight use is required, a TURN ON HEADLIGHTS NEXT XX MILES (R16-7) sign or a BEGIN DAYTIME HEADLIGHT SECTION (R16-10) sign should be installed at the upstream end of the section, and an END DAYTIME HEADLIGHT SECTION (R16-11) sign should be installed at the downstream end of the section.
Placement and mounting
- Option · Permitted (may)A TURN ON HEADLIGHTS (R16-8) sign may be installed to require road users to turn on their headlights in special situations such as when driving through a tunnel. A CHECK HEADLIGHTS (R16-9) sign may be installed downstream from the special situation to inform drivers that using their headlights is no longer required. Figure 2B-34. Headlight Use Signs R16-5 R16-6 R16-7 R16-8 R16-9 R16-10 R16-11
Where to read the rest
- Full text: MUTCD Section 2B.73: Headlight Use Signs
- Minimum sign sizes by roadway type are in the size section for this chapter: Section 2B.03
- Mounting height, lateral offset and retroreflectivity for any sign: MUTCD sign placement guide
Related signs in Section 2B.73
Source: Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 11th Edition (Federal Highway Administration, December 2023, public domain). Excerpts are shortened and shown out of context; read the full section before specifying a sign. Your state may still be operating under the 2009 edition or a state supplement. Official manual: mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov.